TVS Apache RTX 300 vs Honda NX200: Detailed Comparison

The sub-450cc adventure motorcycle category is becoming ever more popular in India. This has inspired two-wheeler manufacturers to introduce their entry-level ADVs to the market. On one hand, there is the TVS Apache RTX 300, a feature-rich, versatile touring machine. On the other hand, you have the Honda NX200, for those who want a hint of adventure without the intimidation of size or cost. This detailed comparison will help you choose the right fit for your riding needs.

Price & Variants

• There is a huge difference in the pricing of the two motorcycles. With higher performance and a more advanced equipment pack, the TVS Apache RTX 300 demands a considerable premium over the Honda NX200.

• The RTX 300 is available in three variant options, and we have explained them in detail, allowing customers to choose the equipment package as per their requirements. However, even the base trim costs significantly more than the NX200, which comes only in one variant.

Dimension & Design

• The longer, wider and taller TVS Apache RTX 300 looks more intimidating than the Honda NX200. The Honda bike, in contrast, looks more friendly and approachable in size.

• The higher ground clearance of the RTX 300 makes it a more capable off-roader, and a higher seat makes it more comfortable for tall riders. The NX 200 is more accessible for shorter riders due to a lower seat height.

• The Apache RTX 300 is a purpose-built adventure motorcycle. Its tall windscreen, upright proportions and rear luggage rack make it a better option for touring. The muscular fuel tank and the exposed frame add to its rugged appeal.

• The Honda NX200 adopts a slightly sportier and more approachable design language. It borrows styling cues from the larger Honda NX500 but still remains slim, relatively light and less intimidating in size.

Ride & Handling

• The Apache RTX 300 is built on a steel trellis frame paired with an aluminium swingarm, a setup aimed at balancing strength and flexibility for long-distance riding. The Honda NX200 employs a diamond-type frame, which prioritises simplicity and weight savings.

• Suspension duties on the RTX 300 are handled by a long-travel USD fork and a monoshock, both with a balanced setup to deal with rough roads, as well as well-paved highways. Plus, its BTO version also gets adjustable front suspension, further enhancing versatility and personalised comfort. 

• The NX 200 also has a USD fork and a monoshock, though with more modest suspension travel. 

• The RTX 300 has a 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wheel, allowing it to deal with rough roads a bit more easily. In comparison, the NX200’s 17-inch wheels make it a completely road-biased bike. 

• The Apache RTX 300's larger disc brakes and multi-mode ABS allow you to brake confidently on different kinds of terrains. 

• The smaller disc brakes of the NX200 are also adequate, but the non-switchable ABS make it suitable only for the tarmac.

Features & Tech

• The TVS Apache RTX 300 clearly stands out as a more feature-rich motorcycle among the two. It comes with a more advanced, high-intensity LED headlight which turns on automatically in the dark and can also adjust its brightness according to the bike’s speed. This is a very useful feature while travelling, and much better than the regular LED headlamp of the Honda NX200.

• The RTX 300 has a larger and more informative display. You can connect your smartphone via Bluetooth and get full-fledged navigation via smartphone mirroring. The Honda NX200 also offers Bluetooth connectivity, but its display is relatively smaller, and only has turn-by-turn navigation.

• The list of electronic aids on the RTX 300 is long, including riding modes, traction control, ABS and more. The rider gets to choose their settings for these assists according to the riding conditions, making it a more versatile and capable adventure motorcycle.

• The NX200 focuses more on simplicity and everyday usability with its basic traction control and dual-channel ABS.

• Both motorcycles have an assist and slipper clutch for smooth gear shifting. However, the RTX 300 also gets a bidirectional quickshifter, ensuring the shifting process almost effortless, especially at high speeds. It allows the rider to shift through the gears without using the clutch. While reducing both physical and mental fatigue over several shifts, it also lets you enjoy your high-speed ride without losing momentum with every gear shift.

• The RTX 300 also offers cruise control and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), both of which are very useful features while touring on long routes. These, along with the other above-mentioned tech, make the RTX a much better and more capable touring machine than the street-friendly NX200.

Engine & Performance

• The TVS Apache RTX 300 features a significantly larger engine with a focus on outright performance and touring. 

• The Honda NX200 uses a simple and easy-to-maintain air-cooled engine that is good enough for urban use and short weekend rides.

• The RTX 300 has almost twice the performance of the NX200. 

• On the contrary, the NX200 focuses on lightness and mileage.

• Further establishing its performance credentials, the RTX 300 has a six-speed gearbox with a bidirectional quickshifter, making it more suitable for long-distance touring and spirited riding.

• The NX200 is rather simple with its conventional five-speed gearbox.

Verdict

With its strong performance and plenty of premium equipment, the TVS Apache RTX 300 targets riders who want a more serious adventure tourer. Its visual mass gives it a great road presence. The design is readily adaptable for luggage mounting, and the bike comes ready with so many touring-friendly features that add comfort and convenience. Moreover, the advanced and more powerful engine further makes the RTX better capable for long routes.

The Honda NX 200 is not just more affordable but feels more approachable and practical for daily use. Its charm lies in its ease of use, with a simpler setup under the fancy ADV-like skin. Clearly, the RTX 300 is for those who want to take motorcycle touring more seriously, while the NX200 can be a good, easy-on-the-pocket option for those looking for an upgrade from a smaller commuter. If you have decided on the TVS Apache RTX 300, here’s an ultimate buying guide which will help in making a decision.

Comparisons With Other Rivals:

• When comparing the RTX 300 to the 250 Adventure, the TVS takes the lead in terms of features and overall touring comfort.
• If you want a capable mid-capacity ADV, both the TVS RTX and Yezdi Adventure deliver strong performance.
• Between the Apache RTX and V-Strom SX, the TVS offers better highway performance and overtaking ability.
• If you are looking for a hardcore off-road machine, the XPulse 210 is better suited than the TVS Apache RTX 300.
• Both bikes offer strong road presence, but the RTX feels more contemporary in styling as compared to the Versys 300.
• The Dominar is similarly priced to the RTX while offering a bigger engine, but fewer features.
• For riders wanting maximum value-for-money, the RTX clearly has the upper hand over the Ultraviolette X-47.
• The RTX comes at a very affordable price point, but if you're not a fan, then check out these alternatives at the same price bracket.